By Linda Dillman
Staff Writer
The Madison Township trustees appointed Laurie Vermeer on Dec. 6 to fill the Madison Township fiscal officer position, which had been held by Barb Adams, who retired after nearly three decades on the job.
Vermeer, 54, is a 1982 graduate of Groveport Madison High School and vice president of International Parts Store/Vermeer Auto Parts, Inc.
Vermeer is also a 1986 graduate of The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in secondary education. She is a life-long township resident and started in the family business pushing a broom around a warehouse when she was in eighth grade.
“I’ve worked in the same business my entire life, and while the township is a completely different business, I thought it would be a great opportunity and challenge for me,” said Vermeer. “I’m very familiar with the township and I am also used to working with employees and payroll, but I’ve never dealt with union contracts.”
While Vermeer said she is following in some big shoes, she feels up to the challenge.
“I am amazed at what Barb knows,” said Vermeer, who must run in the November 2017 election to retain her position, “and she has been a fantastic teacher. I am thankful for her tutoring and mentorship.”
Although the Ohio Revised Code requires only minimal criteria to apply/run for the position, the trustees preferred a candidate with payroll and/or accounting experience, the ability to run for additional terms, along with flexibility and availability to communicate with staff during office hours.
According to the ORC, the fiscal officer does not serve as the trustees’ secretary, they do not need to work in the township building and do not need to have set hours or days. However, compliance with the applicant’s existing employer was required by the trustees.
“We are excited to welcome Laurie as the fiscal officer and appreciate her ‘raising her hand’ to participate in the local government process,” said trustee Victor Paini. “We appreciate the 28 years of service Barb Adams has provided the township and hope she enjoys spending more time with her grandkids. Barb has been a wealth of knowledge and I’ve enjoyed working with her during my six years as trustee.”
Trustee John Kershner said while he’s only been in office since January, the township benefitted from Adams’ dedication.
The process to replace Adams began after her official announcement on Sept. 21. Five resumes were received, but one was withdrawn prior to the initial interview. Initial interviews were conducted by two fiscal officers and the township administrator. The trustees conducted the next series of interviews.
“All applicants interviewed brought a variety of skill sets and experiences to the table,” said trustee Ed Dildine. “The board appreciates all those that took time to interview.”
